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Climate Security Act Protects Rivers and Communities

American Rivers Urges Senate to Pass Historic Climate Legislation

June 4th, 2008

Andrew Fahlund, American Rivers, 202-347-7550

Washington, DC – American Rivers today urged the Senate to strengthen and pass the Boxer-Lieberman-Warner Substitute to the Climate Security Act (S. 3036), a bill that would significantly reduce harmful greenhouse gases and increase investments that will help rivers and communities be more resilient in the face of climate change.

Read the letter, signed by Rebecca Wodder, president of American Rivers (PDF).

Climate change will lead to decreased snowpack and more frequent and intense floods and droughts. The bill includes investments in adaptation, restoration, protection and conservation of freshwater ecosystems, watersheds, and groundwater resources to address the impacts of climate change.

“Global warming is not just about polar bears and ice caps; it will affect every American river and therefore every American community. We are already feeling the impacts from climate change on rivers and clean water, from extended droughts to disastrous floods,” said Rebecca Wodder, president of American Rivers. “But the future doesn’t have to look bleak. If we agressively cut greenhouse gas emissions and plan responsibly, we can have a secure water future and we can leave a legacy of healthy rivers and clean water for future generations. The Climate Security Act is a good start.”

About American Rivers

About American Rivers

American Rivers protects wild rivers, restores damaged rivers, and conserves clean water for people and nature. Since 1973, American Rivers has protected and restored more than 150,000 miles of rivers through advocacy efforts, on-the-ground projects, and the annual America’s Most Endangered Rivers® campaign. Headquartered in Washington, DC, American Rivers has offices across the country and more than 200,000 members, supporters, and volunteers.